Capercaillie

larachmor · #1 (**permalink**) 29-04-2011, 10:13 PM

This year's lekking is coming to a close, and here's hoping the current good spell of weather continues. If we don't get too much in the way of cold wet weather, then it can make all the difference to the recovery of the caper. Latest figures suggest that they could be down to the 1300 level now, so they need all the help they can get.

(Above and below) A few weeks back and this guy will have been in prime condition, but the past two or three weeks' lekking have taken their toll, and he's now sporting a few battle scars.

(Below) Two male capers confront each other, a few feathers are flying, and after a few minutes the pretty boy on the right is seen off!!

And (below) the object of their attention, a hen caper takes an overview from a nearby tree.

aeshna5 · #2 (**permalink**) 30-04-2011, 04:36 AM

Some cracking shots there. I've only ever seen a female. Fingers crossed it's a productive season for them.

FUDGEY · #3 (**permalink**) 30-04-2011, 05:23 AM

Blooming norah Bill you lucky devil! You are so fortunate to know where these are and to get to see them. Id give my right arm for photos like that. Great stuff and thanks for posting, fantastic birds! Top class photos to mate